Pooja Pillai is an entertainment journalist with Asian Media Group, where she covers cinema, pop culture, internet trends, and the politics of representation. Her work spans interviews, cultural features, and social commentary across digital platforms.
She began her reporting career as a news anchor, scripting and presenting stories for a regional newsroom. With a background in journalism and media studies, she has since built a body of work exploring how entertainment intersects with social and cultural shifts, particularly through a South Indian lens.
She brings both newsroom rigour and narrative curiosity to her work, and believes the best stories don’t just inform — they reveal what we didn’t know we needed to hear.
Victoria Beckham posts family holiday photos from a luxury European yacht trip with David, Romeo, Cruz and Harper Beckham.
The fashion designer includes shirtless "thirst trap" shots of her husband, delighting fans.
Cruz Beckham recreates his dad's famous underwear pose from a previous holiday.
Eldest son Brooklyn Beckham and wife Nicola Peltz were absent from the family getaway.
Victoria Beckham has given fans a peek into the Beckham family's summer getaway and made sure her husband David Beckham's shirtless moments didn't go unnoticed.
On Sunday, 10 August, the 51-year-old designer shared a carousel of photos from their European yacht holiday with children Romeo, Cruz and Harper. Eldest son Brooklyn Beckham and his wife Nicola Peltz Beckham were missing from the trip.
The post included sun-soaked shots of the family relaxing on deck, enjoying dinners by the sea and taking in the Mediterranean views. But it was David Beckham's toned, shirtless photos, snapped both in daylight and under the night sky, that had social media buzzing.
Victoria Beckham shares European getaway moments with David and childrenInstagram/victoriabeckham
What did Victoria Beckham share from the yacht holiday?
Victoria's Instagram post featured a mix of family moments and cheeky snaps. In one picture, she posed beside son Cruz in a wide-brimmed sunhat, while David stood nearby in checked swim shorts, showing off his abs.
Other images captured the couple enjoying drinks outdoors, sitting arm-in-arm on the boat at night and dining at the French restaurant Chez Bruno in Lorgues. The two also shared a playful moment in Portofino, where photographers caught them affectionately placing their hands on each other's backsides as they headed to dinner with Cruz and his girlfriend Jackie Apostel on 8 August.
Victoria wore an elegant black backless dress for the evening, while David opted for a blue button-down shirt and khaki trousers.
Cruz Beckham recreates David's famous underwear pose
One standout moment from the post was Cruz's lighthearted tribute to his father's modelling past. The 20-year-old posed on the yacht in white Prada briefs, mimicking David's now-famous underwear photo taken during a 2024 holiday in Positano, Italy.
Cruz later left a humorous meme in the comments, teasing his mum for sharing the snap with her 33 million followers.
The post also showed Cruz playing guitar on the yacht while singing Something Stupid by Frank and Nancy Sinatra, as Victoria encouraged him with the caption: "With backup like this @CruzBeckham... you're destined for great success!"
Cruz Beckham channels his father’s famous underwear pose in white Prada briefsInstagram/victoriabeckham
Family time without Brooklyn Beckham
While the trip brought together most of the Beckham family, Brooklyn and Nicola Peltz Beckham were notably absent. Instead, the holiday group included Jackie Apostel and Victoria's close friend, actress Eva Longoria, who joined them for part of the trip.
The family were also spotted in Saint-Tropez in late July before their Portofino and French Riviera stops, making the most of the summer weather.
David spent time on deck kicking a football with Romeo and Cruz, while Harper enjoyed a sunset embrace from her dad. Romeo, like his father, was seen shirtless in several photos, showing off his tattoos.
Harper Beckham shares a warm embrace with her dad as the sun sets at seaInstagram/victoriabeckham
The Beckhams' picture-perfect summer
Victoria alternated between breezy black dresses, silky pyjamas and sheer summer looks, while David kept things casual with open shirts and swimwear.
The family seemed to relish evenings on deck, warm sunsets and the relaxed pace of life at sea. Victoria's latest post continues the Beckhams' tradition of sharing personal holiday moments with their fans, from luxury travel shots to candid family fun.
Victoria Beckham’s yacht trip photos capture family fun and cheeky moments at sea Instagram/victoriabeckham
With the Mediterranean sun, designer wardrobes and a hint of playful PDA, the Beckhams' summer snapshots are a reminder that even after 25 years of marriage, Victoria and David know how to mix romance, style and family time.
Looks like DB Ventures Ltd has just filed paperwork to trademark a new clothing brand on both sides of the Atlantic.
The proposed logo is a set of seven lines, a number that's always meant the world to Beckham.
This is his big solo push into clothing, moving into the same space as his wife Victoria's successful label.
The UK rights are already locked in, giving him ten years of protection against fakes.
It's the latest piece of his growing business portfolio, which has been landing some hefty deals lately.
Looks like David Beckham is making moves into his own fashion line, following the path his wife Victoria carved out years ago. Paperwork filed by the football icon's company reveals plans for a new label, and the proposed logo points straight to a family passion. It’s a clear sign he’s seriously expanding his brand beyond the pitch.
David Beckham preparing for his first major fashion line Getty Images
What is the story behind David Beckham's new brand?
Right, the full picture isn't out yet, but the legal bits are getting sorted. Through his holding firm, DB Ventures Ltd, Beckham has filed trade mark applications both in the UK and over in the States. The filings protect a specific logo: a set of seven vertical lines, with the last one kicking off at a slight angle.
Now, the number seven is, obviously, the big story here. That number seven? It's everywhere with him. His famous shirt at Manchester United, of course. Then he goes and makes it Harper’s middle name, and let's not forget the tattoo. When she was born, the sevens just stacked up, her weight, the time she arrived, all of it. Seems like a David Beckham thing.
Trademarked seven-line logo reflects Beckham’s iconic number and daughter HarperGetty Images
What will the David Beckham fashion brand sell?
The paperwork gives us a decent look at the potential product range. In the UK, it’s all pretty broad, covering clothing, footwear, and headgear and the application has already been given the green light. But the US filing gets more specific, listing everything from tops and bottoms to dresses, jumpsuits, and even swimwear and undergarments. That one is still pending, last anyone checked. It’s a full wardrobe play, by the looks of it.
Beckham steps into fashion following Victoria’s successful brandGetty Images
How does this fit into the wider Beckham business empire?
Let's not act like Beckham is some newcomer to this game. He stopped playing football ages ago and has been assembling a proper business machine since then. His company, DB Ventures, continues to pull in millions through partnerships with giants like Boss and Stella Artois. So, a fashion line feels like a natural, if bold, next step. It places him right alongside his wife Victoria, whose own label hit a massive £112.7m in sales last year. Talk about a power couple.
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Is Alia Bhatt set to star in Karan Johar’s new film with Ranbir Kapoor or Vicky Kaushal?
Karan Johar is reportedly returning to direct a new romantic feature.
Alia Bhatt is said to be confirmed as the project's leading lady.
Both Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal are apparently in discussions for key roles.
This would be Johar's third directorial collaboration with Bhatt.
The trio is currently filming Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Love & War' together.
The Mumbai film circuit is buzzing with fresh speculation about Karan Johar's next move. No official nod yet, but the rumors are persistent. And they all point to one person being already locked in: Alia Bhatt. The bigger surprise, the bit that's got everyone talking, is the hunt for her co-star. Or co-stars? Seems the shortlist includes her husband Ranbir Kapoor and the ever-rising Vicky Kaushal. Quite the potential lineup.
Is Alia Bhatt set to star in Karan Johar’s new film with Ranbir Kapoor or Vicky Kaushal? Getty Images
Is Karan Johar actually directing this?
Nobody from Dharma has put out a statement yet. But the rumour mill, led by a Mid-Day report, is grinding hard. They mentioned he's gearing up for a new romantic drama, his first since Rocky Aur Rani wrapped up. It fits his pattern, returning to what he does best. But until he posts one of his trademark Instagram announcements, it all stays in the "strong buzz" category.
Buzz builds as Bollywood fans speculate on Karan Johar's new high-profile romantic filmGetty Images
Why is Alia Bhatt the constant in these rumours?
Look, it's no secret that Karan and Alia have a special director-actor bond. So when a new Karan Johar directorial gets mentioned, her name popping up first isn't exactly a shock. It would be their third film together after Student of the Year and Rocky Aur Rani. The real news here isn't her involvement, it's who they're trying to pair her with this time. That's the juicy bit.
This is where things get complicated. Apparently both actors have received the script, though whether they're being considered for the same role or different roles remains unclear. There's some irony here - all three potential leads are currently working on Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Love & War. Getting the same trio for another major project right after would be quite a feat, but scheduling could prove difficult. Bhansali's film still has significant shooting left, including an upcoming overseas schedule in Italy for the climax sequences. Until that wraps up, nobody's calendar is exactly free.
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Johar credited Apoorva Mehta for Dharma’s disciplined financial management
Karan Johar sold 50% of Dharma Productions to billionaire Adar Poonawalla in a deal worth £100 million.
Creative decisions will now be weighed against profitability.
Johar credits coo Apoorva Mehta for steering the company’s business operations.
A strategic partnership for growth
Filmmaker Karan Johar spoke about selling 50% of Dharma Productions to businessman Adar Poonawalla, a move aimed at expanding the studio’s creative and commercial reach. The deal, valued at ₹1,000 crore (around £100 million), was executed through Poonawalla’s serene productions. Johar retains the remaining 50% stake, while Apoorva Mehta continues as executive chairman and ceo.
Speaking to Komal Nahta on his YouTube series Game Changers, Johar said: “I had many dreams that weren’t fulfilled due to funding constraints. I was very clear that I was okay selling 50% of equity because I wanted to expand and leave legacies within the company.”
The role of friendship and trust
Johar revealed that his personal connection with Poonawalla and his wife, Natasha, influenced the partnership. “Adar picked up the phone one day and said he was interested. I initially told him this isn’t your business, but he also wanted to expand,” he said.
He emphasised that the deal did not compromise his creative control: “We haven’t lost any creative freedom. There are checks and balances because having a partner makes you more accountable. Aadar is compassionate and sharp in business. We lean on him for advice when exploring bigger deals.”
Business oversight and profitability
Johar credited Apoorva Mehta for Dharma’s disciplined financial management. “Apoorva is the most correct human. Our accounts are perfect down to the last rupee. He runs Dharma like a well-oiled machine. Without him, I would have fallen apart. I am creative, not business-minded, and he has been the backbone,” Johar said.
For the first time, Johar said, he is making creative decisions with profitability in mind. “Before this, there was no accountability. Now, Apoorva keeps me on my toes. He says, ‘not profitable, don’t do it,’ which sometimes feels upsetting, but growth comes from profit. I want to remain artistic, but I also need to be commercial.”
He cited his film Homebound, critically acclaimed worldwide, as an example of projects he might now reconsider: “I can’t say if I’ll make such films in the future. I will feel upset, but this deal is about growth.”
From boutique studio to expanding enterprise
Johar stressed that dharma was already profitable before the deal. “It’s not like our company was in jeopardy. We were a zero-debt, boutique studio. We did this deal to unlock growth potential that would have otherwise been limited,” he said.
With the new partnership, Dharma has launched a distribution arm, and discussions are ongoing to expand the music division. Johar said the move allows the studio to pursue larger-scale projects while balancing commercial and artistic goals.
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Skinner praises professional partner Amy Dowden for her support
Former Apprentice star Thomas Skinner exits after first dance-off
Judges save former England rugby captain Chris Robshaw
Skinner praises professional partner Amy Dowden for her support
Dowden reflects on her return after breast cancer and previous injury
Dance-off decides first exit
The first results of Strictly Come Dancing 2025 saw two couples face the dance-off on Sunday night. Thomas Skinner, 34, was the first celebrity eliminated after the judges voted to save former England rugby captain Chris Robshaw.
Both couples reprised their Saturday routines: Skinner and his partner Amy Dowden performed a salsa to Bonkers by Dizzee Rascal and Armand van Helden, while Robshaw and his partner Nadiya Bychkova performed a Viennese waltz to Die With a Smile by Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars.
Skinner pays tribute to Dowden
Reflecting on his time on the show, Skinner thanked Dowden, saying: "Thank you, Amy. Sorry that we haven’t done too well, because you’re a different class."
He admitted he had never danced before and described the experience as fun despite the early exit: "I’ve never danced before and my stay was short, but Amy’s amazing. It’s been great fun and I’ve enjoyed it. I can’t really dance that well but I’ve had fun."
Dowden returns to the floor
Amy Dowden, who returned to Strictly following a breast cancer diagnosis and an injury that forced her to pull out midway through 2024, praised Skinner for his enthusiasm and positivity: "I’ve got to know the real Tom, and he is adorable. We’ve laughed so much and he looked after me."
She added that winning the glitterball would have been "amazing" but said: "Happiness, health and being alive is more important than anything."
Performance and scores
During the live show, Skinner lifted Dowden several times, prompting judge Craig Revel Horwood to joke that the routine resembled a weightlifting contest. They scored 13 points, placing them at the bottom of this week’s leaderboard. Combined with the public vote, this led to their appearance in the first dance-off.
Skinner’s career beyond strictly
Skinner first appeared on The Apprentice in 2019 and has since featured on 8 Out of 10 Cats, The Wheel, Michael McIntyre’s Big Show, Good Morning Britain, Faking It, and Celebrity MasterChef. He is also a social media creator, runs several businesses including a gym, and appears regularly on TalkSport Radio.
The remaining 14 couples will perform in next week’s Movie Week. With Strictly 2025 underway, fans can expect more celebrity surprises and show-stopping routines as the competition progresses.
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Stephen Fry delivers a commanding performance as Lady Bracknell in the West End transfer
Stephen Fry is playing Lady Bracknell. Yes, that is correct.
It completely sold out at the National Theatre.
Olly Alexander and Nathan Stewart-Jarrett are the two young men lying about their names.
It is directed by Max Webster, the man behind the Life of Pi play.
You can see it at the Noël Coward Theatre until 10th January.
The highly anticipated production of The Importance of Being Earnest returns with Shobna Gulati joining Nathan Stewart-Jarrett and a bold Max Webster vision that previously sold out at the National Theatre.
Shobna Gulati takes a prominent turn as Miss Prism in the West End transfer of The Importance of Being Earnest, joining a cast that also features Olly Alexander and Stephen Fry. The production, directed by Max Webster, has moved from the National Theatre to the Noël Coward Theatre in London after selling out its initial run, and much of the chatter since the transfer has centred on the casting choices, not least Fry’s decision to play Lady Bracknell.
Stephen Fry delivers a commanding performance as Lady Bracknell in the West End transfer Marc Brenner
What is the deal with Stephen Fry playing Lady Bracknell?
Look, it is genius casting. The role is usually played by a formidable older woman, but Fry completely owns it. He has the height, the voice, and the sheer presence. You truly believe he could silence a room just by walking into it. That famous "A handbag?" line? With him, it is not a shriek. It is slower, deeper, and somehow much more devastating. It is the kind of performance people will definitely remember.
Stephen Fry takes on Lady Bracknell in the West End run of 'The Importance of Being Earnest'Marc Brenner
Who else is in this production?
He is not up there by himself. Olly Alexander from Years & Years is playing Algernon, bringing a truly playful charm to the part. Nathan Stewart-Jarrett is Jack, the character with the fake country brother. The supporting cast is rock solid. Hugh Dennis is the Reverend Chasuble, and Shobna Gulati is a wonderfully flustered Miss Prism. It is a proper ensemble; there are no weak links.
Jessica Whitehurst and Kitty Hawthorne in West End transfer of The Importance of Being EarnestMarc Brenner
How do I actually get tickets to see it?
Right, pay attention. The production is at the Noël Coward Theatre and the run ends on 10 January 2026. That is not very far away. Tickets start at £25 (around ₹2,990). Given its history of selling out, you would be smart not to wait around. Check the theatre's official website.